How to R&R a 2006 GTO rear differential

[SuperBuickGuy]

Hadn't seen this online, so I figure I'll post it up as tech

Remove the back half of the exhaust

Drain the oil from the lowest plug in the differential and remove the half shafts (8 mm allen)



Put the transmission jack under the rear differential, and remove the 4 bolts holding the differential mount to the frame

Lower the differential a couple inches to allow easier access to the 4 bolts holding the differential to the cradle then rest the cradle on a jack stand



remove differential, replace



finished (except exhaust)



ask shop dog whether it's been done correctly

[Bamfster]

Is a 4 wheel alignment needed afterwards?

[SuperBuickGuy]

Is a 4 wheel alignment needed afterwards?

nope

[CDMBill]

When and what is involved with disconnecting the drive shaft?

[Barry Donovan]

Is a 4 wheel alignment needed afterwards?

a body could be bent twisted, broken arch root, suspension popped transaxle chunk flying lunacy...
and an IRS will try to align itself right to the end.

A subaru taught me that one.

the gto looks like it has alot of extra room above the diff..were they planning live axle and change their mind later?

[Mater]

that's where the gas tank was before the car was brought over to the US

[TC]

When and what is involved with disconnecting the drive shaft?

Looks like 3 bolts, it's an old Benz design..........

[SpiderGearsMan]

or opel

[SuperBuickGuy]

When and what is involved with disconnecting the drive shaft?

15mm socket on my impact gun - 3 bolts

also forgot 1 step. Disconnect the battery, not because there's anything that can short, but because when you disconnect the ABS/Traction control sensors it will send a fault to the computer that can only be cleared by battery disconnection